What Does HIV Rash Look Like

AIDS is one of the gravest diseases in the world caused by a virus known as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). This disease can be caused due to several reasons; however, having multiple sex partners is one of the most common reasons. Therefore, those who fall in the category should be aware of the signs and symptoms of this disease. HIV rash is the first and foremost symptoms to appear when contracted with the virus. Surely one might wish to know what HIV rash looks like. Here we will take a look at all the details of the rash caused due to HIV infection.

What is the Nature of HIV Rash
The HIV rash is slightly raised and patchy in appearance. The rash is large and one may also observe small bumps on it. One of the most important characteristic symptom of this rash is its color. Although the rash appears more or less like the rash of psoriasis, the color of the HIV rash differs a lot. In case of individuals having fair to pale skin, the rash appears red to dark red or reddish brown. Whereas, dark skinned individuals will experience rash that is dark brown, dark violet to black in color. One of the other distinctive characteristic of the HIV rash is that it does not itch.

Where is HIV Rash Located
HIV rash appears on the trunk of the body. One may find patches on the chest, back, face, neck, etc. Rashes are rarely found on limbs, i.e., on hands and legs; however, there can be a possibility of it. Secondly, rash near the genitals, although uncommon, is one of the major symptoms of the condition. However, the rash does not itch and has a distinctive color. Sometimes, also in rare cases, people may also experience ulcers inside the mouth. If wondering what does HIV rash feel like, then note that although one may experience irritation, the rash does not itch.

When Does HIV Rash Appear
As mentioned above, rash is one of the first symptoms of this disease and is accompanied with other symptoms like malaise, night sweat and a general feeling of illness. As the HIV is a primary symptom, it is found in the initial days of the infection. To be very precise, HIV skin rash appears in 2-3 weeks of the infection. The rash is also transient, i.e., it lasts for a short period, but can appear again. Usually a HIV rash will last for 1-2 weeks.

Which Other Symptoms Accompany HIV Rash
Along with malaise and the general feeling of illness, several other symptoms like fever, loss of appetite, diarrhea, white patches in mouth (known as thrush), fatigue, muscle aches, enlarged lymph nodes, etc. are observed. The severity of these symptoms vary from person to person. Not all symptoms are always observed in people, however, most of them are noticeably experienced.

How is HIV Rash Treated
It is essential to diagnose whether the rash is an HIV rash or an allergic rash. There is no cure for HIV rash or for HIV. However, the doctor will prescribe medications to reduce the irritation caused due to the rash. The person is also advised to stay away from certain foods and chemicals that can aggravate the condition. It is wise to consult the doctor and undertake quick treatment if any type of skin rash is observed.

Lastly, as a word of caution, it should be noted that all skin rashes are not associated with HIV. But, in case, one experiences a sudden skin rash, without any known allergy, it is advisable to bring it to the notice of the doctor immediately. Take care!